Aim: This study aims to qualitatively explore the experiences of adults with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) in Australia, including weight-related stigma.
Method: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted to assess the experiences of individuals with GDM. Participants (n=815) were adults who had received GDM care in Australia within the last five years. They were recruited via a national diabetes registry or social media and responded to three open-ended questions about their GDM experiences. Thematic analysis was applied to the data, with themes mapped to the socio-ecological systems framework.
Results: The analysis identified several key themes including the accessibility of GDM care and the implementation of clinical guidelines, noting significant needs for better health information provision and more supportive care. Barriers to accessing care and a negative emotional burden were commonly reported. Many participants experienced weight-related stigma, including internalising feelings of guilt, shame, and a sense of failure. The diagnosis impacted their dietary freedom and had various social implications, while some viewed GDM as an opportunity for positive lifestyle changes.
Respondents expressed a desire for increased public awareness of the multifactorial causes of GDM, beyond weight and diet, to alleviate self-blame and guilt. Many felt judged and blamed by healthcare providers, which exacerbated feelings of stigma. Improved education and access to information were noted as crucial for coping and reducing internalised stigma, helping them reject stereotypes and concerns about personal responsibility.
Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for more supportive, person-centred GDM care, enhanced information provision, and individualised implementation of clinical guidelines. These measures could mitigate the negative psychosocial impacts of GDM and foster a better understanding of its multifactorial causes.